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Could Billionaire Complaints Finally Help Improve These Annoying Windows 11 Problems?
Some of tech’s biggest names are now openly questioning Microsoft’s choices for Windows 11. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney and tech leader Elon Musk have pointed out key issues that many everyday users also face. Their comments draw attention to frustrations with the operating system, particularly as Microsoft heavily promotes its new AI assistant, Copilot.
The Missing Vertical Taskbar
A popular feature in past Windows versions was the ability to move the taskbar. Users could place it on the top, left, or right side of their screen, not just at the bottom. This customization helped people organize their digital workspace just the way they liked.
Windows 11 removed this option. The taskbar is now locked to the bottom of the screen. Tim Sweeney made a sarcastic comment online, asking Microsoft’s Copilot AI to code the feature back into Windows. Microsoft’s earlier reasoning for removing it was that it required significant work and that data showed few people used it. However, the outcry from users, now echoed by influential figures, shows that many people valued this small but important piece of customization.
The Forced Microsoft Account
Another major point of criticism is how Windows 11 handles user accounts. The system strongly pushes users to create and sign in with a Microsoft Account (MSA) during setup. An MSA links your computer to Microsoft’s online services. This is different from a local account, which stores all your information only on that one device.
For a long time, users found workarounds to skip the MSA requirement and create a local account. However, Microsoft has been closing these back doors. In recent test builds of Windows 11, these methods no longer work. You now need both an internet connection and an MSA to finish setting up the operating system. Elon Musk specifically supported Tim Sweeney on this point, highlighting the frustration of being forced into an online account. People feel they are losing control and choice over their personal computers.
Unhappy Users and AI Ads
These issues are gaining more attention because of Microsoft’s big advertising push for Copilot, its AI assistant. The company is releasing many ads with famous influencers, but the public response has been largely negative.
- Users leave angry comments on the ads, pointing to basic problems with Windows that remain unfixed.
- Some complain about unwanted news pop-ups appearing on their computers.
- In one ad, the Copilot AI even gave an incorrect recommendation, which made the tool look ineffective.
The core issue is a disconnect. Microsoft is promoting advanced AI features, but many users are still unhappy with fundamental changes to the Windows experience. Before users will embrace new tools like Copilot, they first need to feel that the core operating system respects their preferences and works for them. Fixing these long-standing complaints may be the key to winning back their trust.